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I D Cancer Center
I D Cancer Center
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  • Spinal Tumors

Spinal Tumor: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment | I D Cancer Center

Spinal tumors are abnormal growths that develop in or around the spinal cord, spinal nerves, or vertebrae. They may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can cause significant symptoms because the spine is a delicate and critical structure.
Early evaluation and precise treatment are essential to prevent nerve damage and preserve mobility.

At I D Cancer Center, Lucknow, we offer expert diagnostics, advanced radiotherapy (IMRT/VMAT/SRS), chemotherapy, and a multidisciplinary approach to ensure the best outcomes for patients with spinal tumors.

What Are Spinal Tumors?

Spinal tumors can arise in:

1. Inside the spinal cord (Intramedullary)

  • Ependymoma

  • Astrocytoma

2. Around the spinal cord (Intramedullary-Extradurals / Extramedullary)

  • Meningioma

  • Schwannoma / Neurofibroma

3. In the bones of the spine (Extradural)

  • Metastatic spinal tumors

  • Multiple myeloma

  • Primary bone tumors (Chordoma, Osteosarcoma)

Each type requires specific, individualized treatment.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms may depend on the location and size of the tumor.

  • Back pain (persistent or worsening)

  • Radiating pain to arms or legs

  • Numbness or tingling in hands/feet

  • Weakness in limbs

  • Difficulty walking or balancing

  • Loss of bowel or bladder control (late sign)

  • Spinal deformity (in some bone tumors)

Any unexplained persistent back pain should be evaluated by a specialist.

Risk Factors

Although many spinal tumors occur without known causes, risk increases with:

  • Previous cancers (breast, lung, prostate)

  • Blood cancers (myeloma, lymphoma)

  • Genetic disorders (NF1, NF2)

  • Prior radiation exposure

  • Family history of tumors

How Spinal Tumors Are Diagnosed at I D Cancer Center

Essential Diagnostic Tests

  • MRI Spine (Gold Standard)
    – Provides detailed images of the spinal cord, nerve roots, and tumor.

  • CT Scan
    – Shows bone involvement or structural changes.

  • X-ray
    – Initial evaluation for vertebral damage.

  • PET-CT
    – Detects spread or metastatic disease.

  • Biopsy
    – Confirms the exact type of tumor when needed.

Our imaging uses high-resolution protocols for accurate tumor localization.

Treatment Options at I D Cancer Center

Treatment depends on tumor type, size, spinal involvement, and whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Our team includes radiation oncologists, neurosurgeons, medical oncologists, and rehabilitation specialists.

1. Radiotherapy (Highly Advanced & Precise)

Radiotherapy is a key treatment for many spinal tumors.

Technologies Used at I D Cancer Center

  • IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy)

  • VMAT / Arc Therapy

  • IGRT (Image-Guided Radiotherapy)

  • SRS/SBRT (Stereotactic Radiosurgery / Body Radiotherapy) – for small or metastatic tumors

  • Adaptive Radiotherapy

Benefits:

  • High precision

  • Protection of spinal cord

  • Excellent pain relief

  • Rapid control of tumor

2. Surgery

Surgery may be recommended for:

  • Tumors compressing the spinal cord

  • Stabilizing the spine

  • Removing accessible benign tumors

  • Spinal fractures due to cancer

Types of surgery include:

  • Laminectomy

  • Tumor excision

  • Spinal instrumentation/fixation

  • Minimally invasive spine surgery

3. Chemotherapy

Used mainly for:

  • Lymphoma

  • Multiple myeloma

  • Metastatic cancers

  • Pediatric spinal tumors

4. Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy

Specific spinal tumors (metastatic, myeloma, or selected primary cancers) respond well to:

  • Targeted therapy (e.g., bortezomib, imatinib)

  • Immunotherapy (Pembrolizumab, Nivolumab)

5. Pain Management & Rehabilitation

  • Pain control with medications

  • Physiotherapy

  • Strength and mobility training

  • Lifestyle modification

Early rehabilitation improves long-term outcomes.

Prognosis

Prognosis depends on:

  • Tumor type (benign vs malignant)

  • Stage

  • Neurological impact

  • Response to treatment

Early diagnosis helps preserve nerve function and mobility.

Why Choose I D Cancer Center for Spinal Tumor Treatment?

  • Advanced IMRT/VMAT/IGRT/SRS radiotherapy

  • Expert multidisciplinary spinal oncology team

  • Modern imaging (MRI/CT/PET-CT)

  • Personalized treatment plans

  • Pain and rehabilitation support

  • Compassionate, patient-focused care

We aim to preserve function, relieve pain, and improve quality of life.

When to Consult an Oncologist?

Visit an expert if you experience:

  • Persistent back or neck pain

  • Weakness in legs or arms

  • Sudden difficulty walking

  • Numbness or tingling sensation

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

Early evaluation prevents nerve injury.